Traditional Council ‘Backs’

The National Traditional Council of Liberia says it is ready to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and all forms of harmful traditional practices against young women and girls in Liberia.

The Council made the commitment Thursday at the program making the observance of the ‘International Day of Zore Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation’ (FGM). The event was held under the theme: “End Female Genital Mutilation.”

Speaking at the event, Chief Momokin Zolu, Head of Chief Affairs, National Traditional Council, said they as traditional people, have agreed and resolved to ban FGM and any form of harmful traditional practices in the country.

“We are ready to end FGM, but we need time to talk to our people in the towns, villages, and clans, throughout the Counties who are also involved in the practice,” he added.

Buttressing Chief Zolu, Ma Seta Fofanna Saah, National Vice Coordinator, National Traditional Council asserted that the practice of FGM is yet to come to an end because they, as traditional leaders or people, have not been included in discussions regarding such.

According to her, FGM cannot be abolished without the inclusion of the National Traditional Council, saying “FGM issue is not money making thing or something you will want to say for people to recognize you therefore, if you are not a member or closed to authority, shut your mouth.”

She further dispelled rumors that the domestic violence Bill will not pass until the FGM portion of it is removed, saying “we are prepared to work with the executive order.”

“We will work with the government and our international partners to end the practice but we recommend for your to ask us how we want to do it and not how you people want it,” Saah said.